In a revolutionary leap for eye health, scientists at Newcastle University have 3D-printed the world’s first human corneas using a bio-ink made from stem cells, collagen, and alginate.
The entire process takes less than 10 minutes and can be tailored to each patient, potentially restoring sight to millions suffering from corneal blindness.
With over 10 million people needing surgery to avoid blindness—and nearly 5 million already blind due to corneal damage—this innovation addresses a critical global shortage of donor corneas.
Using an affordable 3D printer, researchers printed custom-shaped corneas by first scanning a patient’s eye, then creating a stem cell-infused gel structure that preserves both cell health and shape integrity.
Published in Experimental Eye Research, the study highlights that while clinical applications are still years away, the technology offers immense promise for personalised eye transplants in the future.
“This approach has the potential to combat the worldwide shortage,” said Professor Che Connon, lead researcher.
Until then, scientists emphasize the ongoing need for cornea donations to help those affected by vision loss today.
